Signs That a Loved One Needs Help in Their Home

As a loved one ages, it is easy to be confused as to whether or not the symptoms they are experiencing are merely due to the normal aging process or whether it is something you should be concerned about. The key to remember is that occasional memory lapses are probably normal, whereas forgetting how something functions is not.

Look for signs in the following categories:

Difficulty performing familiar tasks

Memory loss that interrupts daily tasks

Forgetting how well-known objects function

Poor judgment

Incoherent language

Social inappropriateness

Hallucinations and delusions

Stiff movement or postural issues

There are many signs to look out for to determine if a loved one could benefit from home care:

Attention to personal hygiene is declining, including: failing to change clothes for days, unkempt hair, body odor, inappropriate clothes for the weather or atmosphere, or infrequent bathing or grooming

Mismanagement of medications

Decline in driving skills

Mismanagement of household bills

Reluctance to leaving the house

Unkempt house and clutter piling up

Laundry not being done

Spoiled food in fridge or kitchen cabinets

Stacks of unopened mail

Sings of depression including: not spending time with friends or family, disturbed sleep, hopelessness, lack of interest in hobbies and activities, loss of interest in eating, or feeling lonely or sad

Missed doctor appointments

Recent hospitalization or injury

Complicated medical issues or medications

Unexplained bruises, cuts and scrapes

Trouble with balancing or walking

Loss of weight

Extreme mood swings

Forgetfulness, confusion or memory loss

Pets not being cared for properly

Trouble getting around on their own

While home care is often the best solution, there are also a few times when home care is not the best option. Examples include:

If frequent treatments or intravenous medications are needed and you can’t afford continuous round-the-clock home care